Support Grows For Farmers Rebuilding After TC Jasper Disaster

The Queensland Government’s extension of the application deadline for Extraordinary Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants has provided a crucial lifeline for Far North Queensland’s primary producers recovering from the widespread devastation caused by ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper. Applications will now remain open until 30 June 2025, allowing impacted growers and farmers the time they need to rebuild their lives and operations after the disaster struck in December 2023.
Cyclone Jasper brought torrential rainfall and severe flooding, causing extensive damage to homes, farms, and infrastructure across regions including Cairns, Cassowary Coast, Cook, Douglas, Hinchinbrook, Mareeba, and the Tablelands. Many primary producers are still grappling with the aftermath, with some facing the harsh reality of delayed recovery efforts due to contractor shortages, heavy rain, and the sheer scale of work required to repair their livelihoods.
Eligible producers can access grants of up to $75,000 through the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA). These funds can be used for essential recovery needs such as pasture rehabilitation, replacing livestock, repairing equipment, and rebuilding critical infrastructure. In addition to these grants, other support measures are available, including the Rural Landholder Recovery Grant Scheme, Disaster Assistance Loans, and freight subsidies.
CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan welcomed the government’s decision, emphasising the importance of giving farmers adequate time to recover.
“This extension is a practical response to the realities faced by growers across Far North Queensland, where contractors are in extremely short supply.
“It will give farming communities the breathing room they need to complete vital recovery works and secure funding that will help them move forward after such a challenging time,” he said.
Mr Galligan also acknowledged the emotional and financial strain on communities, particularly in areas like Mossman, where the closure of the local mill has added further uncertainty to an already precarious situation.
“This isn’t just about financial assistance,” Mr Galligan said.
“It’s about recognising the extraordinary resilience of growers and regional communities, and ensuring they have the resources and support needed to rebuild stronger and more sustainably for the future.”
Queensland Senator Anita Green echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the resilience of farmers and the challenges they face.
“Recovery from disasters is never easy, and primary producers face an enormous challenge rebounding from the effects of TC Jasper while still producing the food for our tables.
“Extending the deadline to apply for these grants underlines our commitment to supporting Far North Queensland’s amazing agriculture sector,” she said.
Queensland Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett expressed his personal understanding of the challenges, saying, “As a producer myself, I know firsthand the effect of natural disasters on operations.
“I know how important these grants are to producers, and I am proud to have secured this vital extension.”
Queensland Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers Ann Leahy also highlighted the necessity of the extension, noting, “Extending the deadline to apply for Extraordinary Recovery Grants makes sense when primary producers are time-poor and have had trouble getting back on their feet. I am delighted we have been able to help support our farmers through this difficult period.”
The grants program, funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, has been instrumental in helping primary producers across Far North Queensland recover. However, heavy rain in recent weeks has brought new challenges, underscoring the urgency of rebuilding resilience before future disasters strike.
CANEGROWERS encourages all eligible growers to take advantage of the extended application period.
For more information and to apply, visit the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority website at qrida.qld.gov.au.

IN BRIEF
   • The closing date for Extraordinary Disaster Assistance Recovery Grants has been extended for primary producers impacted by ex-Tropical Cyclone (TC) Jasper.
   • Primary producers now have until 30 June 2025 to apply for the assistance.
   • The extension recognises the difficulties primary producers continue to face as they recover from TC Jasper.

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